This course focuses on issues of violence and deception as it
introduces students to the study of religion and ethics. Through our
consideration of war, capital punishment, abortion, sexual/ domestic
violence and various kinds of deception, we will consider a number of
cross-cutting theoretical questions: what are some of the central
moral themes of Judaism and Christianity? What moral disagreements
have arisen within these traditions? How do religious ethics intersect
or diverge with secular ethics? In a pluralistic society, can
religious and non-religious people talk to each other about ethics?
The course will draw upon biblical texts, religious and secular
ethical arguments, case studies, film, and fiction. Course
requirements will include quizzes, an in-class exam, a short paper
(making an ethical argument), participation in a team debate, and a
comprehensive final.